Creamy Zucchini Pasta Salad with Zucchini Flowers, Goat’s Cheese & Pine Nuts
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prep time10minuti
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cook time15minuti
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serves4people
Ingredients
Method
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Dry roast 40g of the pine nuts in a pan for 45-60 seconds. Set aside.
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Into a pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta as per packet instruction. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop it from over cooking. Drizzle with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, mix well and set aside.
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While the pasta is boiling, cut 3 zucchini into thin rounds and stir fly in 3 tablespoons of extra curling olive oil until soft and slightly caramelized. Set aside.
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Remove the stalks from 3 zucchini, cut into chunks and blanch in salted boiling water for 5 minutes.
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Drain and place into a bowl of a food processor fitted with blades. Add 2/3 of the pine nuts, Parmesan, lemon juice and 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and whizz until smooth.
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In a large mixing bowl toss the cooked pasta with the zucchini sauce and mix well. Tumble onto a serving platter and scatter to zucchini slices, toasted pinenuts and torn zucchini flowers on top. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and finely grated zest of 1 lemon.
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Serve and enjoy with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the goat's cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, if goat's cheese isn't to your taste or readily available, you can substitute it with feta cheese for a tangier flavor or ricotta for a milder, creamier texture. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the overall taste profile of the salad.
Where can I find zucchini flowers, and are they essential to the recipe?
Zucchini flowers are often available at farmers' markets or specialty grocery stores, especially during the summer months. While they add a delicate flavor and visual appeal to the salad, the dish remains delicious without them. If unavailable, you can omit them or replace them with thinly sliced baby zucchini for a similar texture.
Is it possible to make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and zucchini sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them and add the fresh toppings like toasted pine nuts, zucchini slices, and torn zucchini flowers to maintain their texture and freshness.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of wagon wheels?
Yes, while San Remo's Wagon Wheels are recommended for their ability to hold the creamy sauce well, you can use other short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. These alternatives will also capture the sauce effectively and provide a satisfying bite.
